Tape the headers?

volvonut · Jul 5, 2005

I've searched the forums for info and wondered if anyone knows how great of an impact on cooling systems the closeness of the headers to the radiator is? I posted that my radiator (95/96 fe600e) was actually sitting on the header pipes! With about 2 hours and a headache later, I was able to get it to sit about 1/8" above. I then built an aluminum heat shield to block the heat. The problem is that there is no air gap to slow down heat transfer. The heat shield is pretty much acting as a radiator protector than a heat shield. It is touching both the header welds and the radiator tank. I can grind down the weld humps for more clearance but I was wondering if header tape would be a good approach. I have never used the stuff before. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Volvonut

berger · Jul 5, 2005

Well I finnally got the header wrap I was going to install on my 650. After reading the instructions it looks way too labor intensive. If you ever needed to remove the exhaust it would be a major pain . I think I am going to go with Jet Hot ceramic coating. They quoted $125 . I have seen the stuff and it looks good. As far as reducing heat, they say up to 50%.

wildbill · Jul 5, 2005

I use the heat shields you buy at a auto parts store. It sticks on and I use it where the muffler is next to the side cover. Works good, worth a try. My bike is a 96 FE 501. I would try mounting it to the bottom of the radiator and see if that helps.Hope this helps.

70marlin · Jul 6, 2005

I wrap the header next to the carb & shock with a cloth type gasket material we use @ work for autoclaves door gaskets. (Very high temp) I also warp the float bowl of the carb. So far so good?

benk · Jul 7, 2005

volvonut said:
I've searched the forums for info and wondered if anyone knows how great of an impact on cooling systems the closeness of the headers to the radiator is?... I was wondering if header tape would be a good approach. I have never used the stuff before. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Volvonut

doubt very much whether your exhaust is seriously affecting your cooling system performance. taping your exhaust will have two very significant advantages;
1. hot exhaust gas travels faster, so hot exhausts flow better than cold ones.
2. nylons last longer! many, many berg owners have a burn hole in their right knee.

rgrant · Jul 12, 2005

I've considered using the heat wrap tape but I think it may cause the exhaust pipes to deteriorate prematurely, especially near the head where the temps are highest. It may keep the heat in to well and overheat the metal, causing it to pit and deteriorate. I've heard of this happening with carbon steel headers on cars before. The stainless pipes on Bergs should hold up better, but I'd rather not experiment on mine.

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Tape the headers?

volvonut

berger

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70marlin

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